Science and technology educational NGO iDE Cambodia and the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that aims to support the capacity building of young Cambodians and promote innovation, technology, and inclusive development.
The MoU was signed on April 19 by iDE Cambodia country director Kevin Robbins and ITC deputy director Oeurng Chantha. The MoU formalises a framework of cooperation and will facilitate collaboration.
“The two organisations bring together complementary institutional experience, human resources, technical know-how, and professional networks. They aim to leverage their combined strengths to tackle social, environmental and economic challenges, while developing human capital among young Cambodians,” said an April 19 joint press release.
ITC is one of the country’s oldest and most prominent higher educational institutions in the field of science, technology, engineering and research, while iDE has been active in Cambodia since 1994. It focuses on supporting entrepreneurs and the commercialisation of technology and innovation for inclusive and resilient development within the sectors of agriculture and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
“The mission of ITC is to build human capital and to fill in technical knowledge gaps,” the release quoted Chantha as saying.
He noted that recent collaborations between ITC and iDE included the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for pest and disease identification and control in agriculture, and environmentally friendly mushroom cultivation.
“ITC is pleased to sign this MoU. It will enable us to extend our collaboration on research and development in the areas of food and nutrition, water and waste management, sanitation, solar pumping and more, while allowing students to absorb knowledge and gain experience through their close involvement in the process,” he added.
“The signing marks an important milestone for iDE Cambodia. The partnership with ITC will help advance iDE’s mission to support inclusive and resilient development in Cambodia through thought partnership, mutual support, and synergistic exchanges,” Robbins was quoted as saying.
It also would create important internship opportunities for motivated students who are interested in innovation and technologies for agriculture, climate, and WASH, he added.
“We welcome talented students and recent graduates to join us to promote innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship in the agriculture and WASH sectors to help reduce poverty.
“The internship programme will provide students the opportunity to gain practical work experience in a dynamic international environment, while contributing their new skills and innovative ideas for iDE programs and activities,” he concluded.
